- AZD8055 is an experimental cancer treatment drug that works by inhibiting a protein called mTOR, which is known to promote tumor cell and blood vessel growth and to control tumor s energy and nutrient levels. AZD8055 is the first drug that inhibits both types of mTOR protein and is expected to be more effective than prior mTOR inhibitors. However, more research is needed to determine its safety and effectiveness in treating brain tumors known as gliomas that have not responded to standard treatments.